The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Full Open reveals all magical aspects of the legendary El Primero movement. Developed in 1969, it was the world’s most accurate series-produces chronograph and introduced in the Zenith El Primero Ref. A386. It has the Zenith caliber 3019, and only 2,500 pieces were made.

This new Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Full Open comes in two models: with a 38- or a 42-millimeter case. Both models are available in three different executions. Let’s look at the movement first.

Sure, the El Primero from 1969 evolves over time. The 38-millimeter version of the Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Full Open has the El Primero 400 movement. The one with the date between 4 and 5 o’clock, just like the original. The 42-millimeter version has the date window at the 6 o’clock position and is powered by the El Primero 400B caliber. Besides the position of the date aperture, the date-wheel of the 42-millimeter version has ‘reversed’ cut-out numbers, the date-wheel on the 38-millimeter version has ‘standard’ cut-out numbers.

The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Full Open stays close to the original Ref. 386A

The El Primero 400 and 400B both run at a high beat of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz) which enables the column-wheel chronograph to measure time up to a tenth of a second.

Both 38- and 42-millimeter cases are stainless steel. For both a 18K pink gold bezel is an option, and both are available with either a matching leather strap or a metal bracelet. Note that the 38-millimeter model has the original 1969 case, which also was 38 millimeters in diameter.

If you are looking for a new Zenith Chronomaster El Primero, this Full Open is an interesting option. Altough the model is still available with closed dial or a half-open dial as well. Or pay a few more and try to find the original Ref. A386.